Israel eyeing closer ties with J Street

Israel
is changing its attitude towards J Street,
a US Jewish liberal lobby widely thought to be AIPAC's
rival. Having snubbed and even boycotted
it, Israel now appears to be looking to strengthen ties with the controversial group, Yedioth Ahronoth reported.

A J Street delegation currently visiting Israel will meet with Israeli officials for the first time. Members of the group will meet with President Shimon Peres
on Thursday.

The shift in policy can be seen in the context of Israel's efforts to tighten relations with the Obama administration and restart negotiations with the Palestinians.

State officials noted that J Street has become a major player in the US political arena which can no longer be ignored.

J Street director Jeremy Ben-Ami said that as a pro-Israel lobby the group works for Israel's benefit and has underlined its commitment to Israel and peace. He further added that the group believes there now exits an opportunity to renew the peace process.